Jump to content

Welcome to TheMalibuCrew!

As a guest, you are welcome to poke around and view the majority of the content that we have to offer, but in order to post, search, contact members, and get full use out of the website you will need to Register for an Account. It's free and it's easy, so don't hesitate to join the TheMalibuCrew Family today!

1995 Response cracked head


Recommended Posts

Hi all, hoping for some guidance here...

We have a 1995 Malibu Response with the 5.7ltr 350 265hp carby engine, now with the added feature of a cracked head.

We were quoted $2200 AUD for a replacement head kit, plus over $600 in gaskets, and $1660 for fitting which made my eyes water. On ringing around, I think we are getting ripped a new one, so picked the boat back up and are looking at doing it all ourselves over winter.
I'm trying to find some technical information though:
Will a Vortec head be a drop on replacement? (We would do both if using a different head). They offer a 40hp increase from what Google is saying, but unsure of compatibility with cams, exhaust manifold etc.
Apart from stainless gaskets and checking the exhaust manifolds aren't corroded, what else needs to be done to ensure it's marinised? I've been told the valve seats are thicker/different material, stronger valves, thicker gaskets etc. I'm not convinced though...

Any advise/help would be appreciated. We have all winter so doing my research to make sure we do it right.
Cheers, Pete
 

P. S. It's for freshwater use only. 

Edited by Poita
Link to comment

The short answer is yes, but I think you need to change your intake manifold too ($175 USD with shipping).  @Woodski is the guy I would be asking too.  You will definitely be able to use your same carburetor.  Is it electric choke or does yours have the lever going down into the manifold for choke?

Link to comment

I'll have to check that, not sure. 

Went to a local speed shop, compete head with stainless gaskets, $880. MUCH better! 

  • Like 1
Link to comment

@Poita:  Vortec heads are a '96 upgrade and are the 265 to 310 hp jump.  They have the same head to block bolt pattern but different intake manifold bolt pattern depending on whether you go GM or aftermarket (options exist for old bolt pattern).  My eyes would water too at those price quotes.  A US based parts performance parts warehouse is Summit Racing or Jegs, you can peruse the website to learn about what GM and aftermarket parts are available, a budget parts warehouse is Rock Auto and they have a website.  GM Performance parts will carry all the replacement original GM parts.  Use the key word 'marine' in your search to get the marine parts.

  • Like 2
  • Thanks 1
Link to comment

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Restore formatting

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

×
×
  • Create New...